By WU VUIDE
KOTA BELUD: Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said local parties must be dominant in Sabah politics and take the lead in forming alliances for the upcoming 17th State Election (PRN17).
He said the current Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS)-led government, made up of local parties, must continue.
“Therefore, this election is crucial. We must not make the wrong choice.
“The question of cooperation is another matter. In line with the people’s sentiments, local parties must be the driving force of the government,” he said, when officiating the 2025 General Congress of the United Sabah National Organisation (Usno) at the Seri Dungkuan Open Hall in Kampung Rampayan Laut.
Hajiji said he would not easily surrender GRS’ rights and struggle to those working against the coalition.
He urged all leaders and members of GRS component parties, including Usno, to go to the ground and explain GRS’ mission to the people.
Hajiji, who is also GRS chairman, said Usno and other component parties played equally vital roles in the coalition.
“Therefore, I hope Usno will unite its efforts to ensure GRS’ victory in the coming election.
“That is why Usno’s involvement in GRS is critical to strengthening our position.
“Usno must work together with GRS so we can regain the people’s mandate and jointly defend Sabah’s rights.
“Our intention is sincere and noble. As Sabahans, we must stand united to defend our rights,” he said.
He added that GRS needed all its partners to shoulder their responsibilities equally, regardless of party size.
“We want to fight for our people who are still left behind and in need of support. We want to raise their standard of living.
“We want to push for stronger infrastructure and economic development in Sabah. That’s why GRS must be given a renewed mandate to govern the state,” he said.
Hajiji also thanked Usno for its commitment to GRS, as reflected in the slogan voiced by its president, Tan Sri Pandikar Amin Mulia: “Usno and GRS, inseparable.”
